U.S. patent application number 14/667119 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-06 for applicators for artificial eyelashes and kits for applying artificial eyelashes.
The applicant listed for this patent is Kiss Nail Products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ki-chul AHN, Sung-an CHAE, Kyu-sang HAN, Won-seok OH.
Application Number | 20150216246 14/667119 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53753725 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150216246 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
AHN; Ki-chul ; et
al. |
August 6, 2015 |
APPLICATORS FOR ARTIFICIAL EYELASHES AND KITS FOR APPLYING
ARTIFICIAL EYELASHES
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to an applicator for artificial
eyelashes and a kit for applying artificial eyelashes. The
applicator includes a first leg, a second leg rotatably coupled to
the first leg at a hinge joint, a first body portion connected to
the first leg, and a second body portion connected to the second
leg. The first body portion includes a first flange positioned
opposite the hinge joint, and the second body portion includes a
second flange positioned opposite the hinge joint. The first flange
matingly receives the second flange when the second leg is rotated
toward the first leg.
Inventors: |
AHN; Ki-chul; (Port
Washington, NY) ; HAN; Kyu-sang; (Port Washington,
NY) ; CHAE; Sung-an; (Levittown, NY) ; OH;
Won-seok; (Port Washington, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kiss Nail Products, Inc. |
Port Washington |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53753725 |
Appl. No.: |
14/667119 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13736572 |
Jan 8, 2013 |
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14667119 |
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13335306 |
Dec 22, 2011 |
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13736572 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
132/53 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 2/48 20130101; A41G
5/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41G 5/02 20060101
A41G005/02 |
Claims
1. An applicator for artificial eyelashes, the applicator
comprising: a first leg; a second leg coupled to the first leg at a
hinge joint; a first body portion connected to the first leg, the
first body portion including a first flange positioned opposite the
hinge joint; a set of artificial eyelashes disposed on the first
flange; a second body portion connected to the second leg, the
second body portion including a second flange positioned opposite
the hinge joint; and a coupling mechanism mounted to at least one
of the first and second legs, wherein the coupling mechanism
releasably locks the first and second legs together, and wherein
the first flange matingly receives the second flange with the set
of artificial eyelashes positioned therebetween when the first and
second legs are locked together.
2. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism
includes a catch mechanism mounted to the first leg and a hook
mounted to the second leg.
3. The applicator of claim 1, wherein a gap extends between the
first and second body portions when the first and second legs are
locked together.
4. The applicator of claim 3, wherein a portion of the set of
eyelashes extends within the gap when the first and second legs are
locked together.
5. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the second flange includes a
convex eyelash contact surface facing toward the first flange when
the first and second legs are locked together.
6. The applicator of claim 5, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the eyelash contact surface defines a
curve when viewed along a direction substantially parallel to the
rotational axis, and wherein a chord line drawn between ends of the
curve is substantially parallel to a part of the second body
portion.
7. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotation axis, and wherein the first and second flanges each define
a concave arc lying in a section plane that is coplanar with the
rotation axis.
8. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the first leg defines a first leg width,
and the first body portion defines a first body portion width, both
the first leg width and the first body portion width being along a
direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis, and
wherein the first leg width is about one third or more of the first
body portion width.
9. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the second leg defines a second leg width,
and the second body portion defines a second body portion width,
both the second leg width and the second body portion width being
along a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis,
and wherein the second leg width is about one third or more of the
second body portion width.
10. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the first leg defines a first leg width,
and the second leg defines a second leg width, both the first and
second leg widths being along a direction substantially parallel to
the rotational axis, and wherein the first and second leg widths
are substantially the same.
11. A kit for applying artificial eyelashes, the kit comprising: a
packaging tray; and at least one applicator for artificial
eyelashes removably coupled to the packaging tray, the at least one
applicator comprising a first leg, a second leg coupled to the
first leg at a hinge joint, a first body portion connected to the
first leg, the first body portion including a first flange opposite
the hinge joint, a set of artificial eyelashes disposed on the
first flange, and a second body portion connected to the second
leg, the second body portion including a second flange opposite the
hinge joint, wherein the first flange matingly receives the second
flange with the set of artificial eyelashes positioned therebetween
when the second leg is rotated toward the first leg.
12. The kit of claim 11, wherein the at least one applicator is
removably coupled to the packaging tray through at least one
frangible joint.
13. The kit of claim 11, wherein the at least one applicator
comprises a coupling mechanism mounted to at least one of the first
and second legs, and wherein the coupling mechanism releasably
locks the first and second legs together.
14. The kit of claim 13, wherein a gap extends between the first
and second body portions when the first and second legs are locked
together.
15. The kit of claim 11, wherein the second flange includes a
convex eyelash contact surface facing toward the first flange when
the second leg is rotated toward the first leg.
16. The kit of claim 11, wherein the hinge joint defines a rotation
axis, and wherein the first and second flanges each define a
concave arc lying in a section plane that is coplanar with the
rotation axis.
17. The kit of claim 11, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the first leg defines a first leg width,
and the first body portion defines a first body portion width, both
the first leg width and the first body portion width being along a
direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis, and
wherein the first leg width is about one third or more of the first
body portion width.
18. The kit of claim 11, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the second leg defines a second leg width,
and the second body portion defines a second body portion width,
both the second leg width and the second body portion width being
along a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis,
and wherein the second leg width is about one third or more of the
second body portion width.
19. The kit of claim 11, wherein the hinge joint defines a
rotational axis, wherein the first leg defines a first leg width,
and the second leg defines a second leg width, both the first and
second leg widths being along a direction substantially parallel to
the rotational axis, and wherein the first and second leg widths
are substantially the same.
20. An applicator for artificial eyelashes, the applicator
comprising: a first leg; a second leg rotatably coupled to the
first leg at a hinge joint; a first body portion connected to the
first leg, the first body portion including a first flange
positioned opposite the hinge joint; and a second body portion
connected to the second leg, the second body portion including a
second flange positioned opposite the hinge joint, wherein the
first flange matingly receives the second flange when the second
leg is rotated toward the first leg.
21. An applicator for artificial eyelashes, the applicator
comprising: a substantially planar body portion; a flange coupled
to the body portion, the flange defining a concave arc to support a
set of artificial eyelashes; and at least one leg coupled to the
body portion opposite the flange and angled away from the body
portion.
22. The applicator of claim 21, wherein the flange is angled away
from the body portion at approximately 20 degrees to approximately
30 degrees.
23. The applicator of claim 21, wherein the at least one leg is
angled away from the body portion at approximately 30 degrees to
approximately 60 degrees.
24. The applicator of claim 21 comprising an adhesive layer
disposed on the flange for temporary adherence of the set of
artificial eyelashes to the flange.
25. The applicator of claim 24 comprising a cover layer disposed
over the adhesive layer.
26. The applicator of claim 25, wherein the cover layer is precut
across for removal of the cover layer and exposing the adhesive
layer.
27. The applicator of claim 21, wherein the at least one leg
defines a leg width, wherein the body portion defines a body
portion width, and wherein the leg width is about one third or more
of the body portion width.
28. A kit for applying artificial eyelashes, the kit comprising: a
packaging tray; and at least one applicator for artificial
eyelashes removably coupled to the packaging tray, the at least one
applicator comprising a substantially planar body portion, a flange
coupled to the body portion, the flange defining a concave arc to
support a set of artificial eyelashes, and at least one leg coupled
to the body portion opposite the flange and angled away from the
body portion.
29. The kit of claim 28, wherein the at least one applicator is
removably coupled to the packaging tray through at least one
frangible joint.
30. The kit of claim 28, wherein the flange is angled away from the
body portion at approximately 20 degrees to approximately 30
degrees.
31. The kit of claim 28, wherein the at least one leg is angled
away from the body portion at approximately 30 degrees to
approximately 60 degrees.
32. The kit of claim 28, wherein the at least one applicator
comprises an adhesive layer disposed on the flange for temporary
adherence of the set of the artificial eyelashes to the flange.
33. The kit of claim 28, wherein the at least one leg defines a leg
width, wherein the body portion defines a body portion width, and
wherein the leg width is about one third or more of the body
portion width.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] The present application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/736,572, filed on Jan. 8, 2013,
which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/335,306, filed on Dec. 22, 2011, the contents of each of which
are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to cosmetic items,
and, more particularly, to applicators for artificial eyelashes and
kits for applying artificial eyelashes.
BACKGROUND
[0003] As an alternative to or in addition to mascara, eyelash
lengthening, darkening or thickening may be accomplished by
attaching artificial eyelashes to a user's eyelids to enhance the
appearance of eyelashes. Such artificial eyelashes are generally
secured to the user's eyelids by an adhesive.
[0004] The artificial eyelashes may be manually applied to an
eyelid with the user's fingers. Specifically, an artificial eyelash
may be gripped by the fingers, bent to a selected curvature, and
applied to the eyelid. Applicators have been introduced for use in
artificial eyelash application. Effective application requires the
proper adjustment for curvature of the user's eyelid, and also
requires accurate placement of the artificial eyelash. However,
typically, the location of the user's hands, fingers and the
applicator, which are proximate to the user's eye during
application, may obstruct the user's view in a mirror, making
proper placement of the artificial eyelash difficult.
[0005] The adhesive used to secure the artificial eyelash to the
user's eyelid can adhere to the user's fingers and/or the
applicator, requiring excessive handling of the artificial eyelash
and causing unwanted distortion and bending of the artificial
eyelash. Existing applicator devices also do not adequately allow
for effective application of the artificial eyelash on different
eye shapes.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present disclosure has been made to address at least the
above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the
advantages described below. Accordingly, aspects of the present
disclosure provide applicators for artificial eyelashes and kits
for applying artificial eyelashes.
[0007] One non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is
directed to an applicator for artificial eyelashes including a
first leg, a second leg coupled to the first leg at a hinge joint,
a first body portion connected to the first leg, and a second body
portion connected to the second leg. The first body portion
includes a first flange positioned opposite the hinge joint. A set
of artificial eyelashes is disposed on the first flange. The second
body portion includes a second flange positioned opposite the hinge
joint. A coupling mechanism is mounted to at least one of the first
and second legs. The coupling mechanism releasably locks the first
and second legs together. The first flange matingly receives the
second flange with the set of artificial eyelashes positioned
therebetween when the first and second legs are locked
together.
[0008] Another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is
directed to a kit for applying artificial eyelashes including a
packaging tray and at least one applicator for artificial eyelashes
removably coupled to the packaging tray. The at least one
applicator includes a first leg, a second leg coupled to the first
leg at a hinge joint, a first body portion connected to the first
leg, and a second body portion connected to the second leg. The
first body portion includes a first flange opposite the hinge
joint. A set of artificial eyelashes is disposed on the first
flange. The second body portion includes a second flange opposite
the hinge joint. The first flange matingly receives the second
flange with the set of artificial eyelashes positioned therebetween
when the second leg is rotated toward the first leg.
[0009] Another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is
directed to an applicator for artificial eyelashes including a
first leg, a second leg rotatably coupled to the first leg at a
hinge joint, a first body portion connected to the first leg, and a
second body portion connected to the second leg. The first body
portion includes a first flange positioned opposite the hinge
joint, and the second body portion includes a second flange
positioned opposite the hinge joint. The first flange matingly
receives the second flange when the second leg is rotated toward
the first leg.
[0010] Another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is
directed to an applicator for artificial eyelashes including a
substantially planar body portion, a flange coupled to the body
portion, and at least one leg coupled to the body portion opposite
the flange. The flange defines a concave arc to support a set of
artificial eyelashes. The at least one leg is angled away from the
body portion.
[0011] Another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure is
directed to a kit for artificial eyelashes including a packaging
tray and at least one applicator for artificial eyelashes removably
coupled to the packaging tray. The at least one applicator includes
a substantially planar body portion, a flange coupled to the body
portion, at least one leg coupled to the body portion opposite the
flange. The flange defines a concave arc to support a set of
artificial eyelashes. The at least one leg is angled away from the
body portion.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the
present disclosure will be more apparent from the following
detailed description when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a top view of a packaging
tray for artificial eyelashes, according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
packaging tray for artificial eyelashes, according to an embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash
applicator integrated with the packaging tray, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a series of diagrams illustrating removal of the
artificial eyelash applicator from the packaging tray, according to
an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the artificial eyelash
applicator removed from the packaging tray, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash
applicator integrated with the packaging tray, according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of the
packaging tray for artificial eyelashes, according to the
embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 6;
[0020] FIG. 8 provides diagrams illustrating top and bottom
surfaces of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an artificial eyelash
application methodology, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0023] FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating perspective
views of an artificial eyelash applicator integrated with a
packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0024] FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating perspective
views of the artificial eyelash applicator of FIG. 11, according to
an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating removal of a
cover layer from an adhesive layer of the artificial eyelash
applicator, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 14A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator, according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 14A;
[0028] FIG. 14C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 14A;
[0029] FIG. 14D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 14A;
[0030] FIG. 15A is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator, according to another embodiment of
the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 15A;
[0032] FIG. 15C is a diagram illustrating a front view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 15A;
[0033] FIG. 15D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 15A;
[0034] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator having a curved middle leg, according
to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0035] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator having a shorter curved middle leg,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator having only a middle leg, according
to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0037] FIG. 19 is a plan view of an applicator for artificial
eyelashes according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0038] FIG. 20 is a side view of the applicator shown in FIG. 19,
illustrating a set of artificial eyelashes disposed thereon;
[0039] FIG. 21 is a series of bottom perspective views of the
applicator shown in FIG. 20, illustrating opened and closed
positions;
[0040] FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the applicator shown in
FIG. 20, illustrating the closed position; and
[0041] FIG. 23 is a side view of the applicator shown in FIG.
22.
[0042] The reader will appreciate the foregoing details, as well as
others, upon considering the following detailed description of
certain non-limiting embodiments of applicators and kits according
to the present disclosure. The reader also may comprehend certain
of such additional details upon using the applicators and kits
described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in
detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or
similar components may be designated by the same or similar
reference numerals although they are illustrated in different
drawings. Detailed descriptions of constructions or processes known
in the art may be omitted to avoid obscuring the subject matter of
the present disclosure. Further, in the following description of
the present disclosure, various specific definitions found in the
following description are provided only to provide a general
understanding of the present disclosure, and it is apparent to
those skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be
implemented without such definitions.
[0044] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a diagram illustrates a top
view of a packaging tray 100 for artificial eyelashes, according to
an embodiment of the present disclosure. A top surface of the
packaging tray 100 of FIG. 1 includes first and second integrated
artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104. The first and second
artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are attached to the
packaging tray 100 and lie in-line with the contours are of the top
surface of the packaging tray 100. While the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 1 shows two artificial
eyelash applicators, any number of artificial eyelash applicators
may be integrated into the top surface of the packaging tray 100.
First artificial eyelash applicator 102 has a first main body 106
and two corresponding legs 108a and 108b, while second artificial
eyelash applicator 104 has a second main body 110 and two
corresponding legs 112a and 112b. The corresponding legs 108a,
108b, 112a and 112b extend in substantially the same direction from
one of the main bodies 106 and 110. While the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 1 shows artificial eyelash
applicators having two legs, any number of legs may be provided
that also allow for proper application of the artificial eyelash.
Further, the main bodies 106 and 110 are shown having a slightly
concave curvature that results in a slight wishbone shape of the
first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104.
[0045] First and second artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 are
disposed on and temporarily adhered to the main bodies 106 and 110
of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104,
respectively. Base portions of the first and second artificial
eyelashes 114 rest on first and second contoured projections 118
and 120 of the packaging tray 100. The first and second contoured
projections 118 and 120 are disposed on a side of the main bodies
106 and 110 opposite that from which the corresponding legs 108a,
108b, 112a and 112b extend.
[0046] Both the packaging tray 100 and the integrated artificial
eyelash applicators 102 and 104 may be composed of a synthetic or
semi-synthetic organic solid, such as, for example, a lightweight
or thin plastic or polymer.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 2, a diagram illustrates a side view
of the packaging tray 100, according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure. The second artificial eyelash 116 is disposed
on the second artificial eyelash applicator 104 in a specific
position. The second contoured projection 120 of the packaging tray
100 supports this specific position of the artificial eyelash 116.
More specifically, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, an
angle from which the second artificial eyelash 116 extends from its
own base is preferably approximately 20-30 degrees from a vertical
line representing the top surface of the packaging tray 100.
Accordingly, a front surface of the second contoured projection 120
that supports the base of the second artificial eyelash 116 is also
angled at 20-30 degrees from the vertical line of the packaging
tray 100. The first artificial eyelash 114 and the first contoured
projection 118 are angled in a similar manner. This angled
disposition of the first and second artificial eyelashes 114 and
116 allows for proper display when the first and second contoured
projections 118 and 120 are envisioned as the eyelids of the user.
Further, this angled disposition maintains the first and second
artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 in the proper shape so that they
are not damaged within the packaging.
[0048] FIG. 3 is a diagram that illustrates the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. FIG. 3 provides a view of the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 prior to application of the first artificial eyelash
114. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, the first
artificial eyelash applicator 102 includes the first main body 106
and two corresponding legs 108a and 108b. The second eyelash
applicator 104 has a configuration that is substantially identical
to that described herein with respect to FIG. 3.
[0049] The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is integrated
with the packaging tray 100 through four attachment points
122a-122d. The remaining portions and edges of the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102 are detached from the packaging tray 100.
The four attachment points 122a-122d are preferably disposed on
each side of the first main body 106 proximate to an area where the
corresponding legs 108a and 108b meet the first main body 106. The
four attachment points 122a-122d maintain the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102 in-line with the contours of the packaging
tray 100. The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 is removed
from the packaging tray by breaking the four attachment points
122a-122d. While this embodiment of the present disclosure
illustrates four attachment points 122a-122d, any number of
connection points may be utilised that maintain the artificial
eyelash applicator 102 in the proper position with respect to this
embodiment and also allow for removal of the artificial eyelash
applicator 102 from the packaging tray 100.
[0050] The first artificial eyelash applicator 102 also includes a
flexible region 124. The flexible region 124 is disposed in a
central portion of the first main body 106. In a preferred
embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible region 124 is
cut to an accordion shape so that the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 is easily bent when the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 is being used to apply the first artificial eyelash
114, which will be described in greater detail below with reference
to FIG. 10.
[0051] Further, with respect to FIG. 3, the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102 is shown to include a portion of the first
contoured projection 118. More specifically, when the first
artificial eyelash applicator 102 is removed from the packaging
tray 100 a portion of the first contoured projection is also
removed. Thus, the main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 includes both a substantially horizontal portion and
a substantially vertical portion, which form a ledge-like shape.
This shape of the main body 106 allows for easier retention of the
first artificial eyelash 114, when the artificial eyelash
applicator 102 is being used and the first artificial eyelash 114
is being applied.
[0052] The main body 106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator
102 also includes first and second corner regions 126a and 126b.
The first corner region 126a is disposed at a portion of the first
main body 106 that meets the first leg 108a, and the second corner
region 126b is disposed at a portion of the first main body 106
that meets the second leg 108b. Adhesive is applied at both the
first and second corner regions 126a and 126b for temporary
adhesion of the first artificial eyelash 114 to the first main body
106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator 102. Adhesive may be
applied to a top surface of the main body 106 in the first and
second corner regions 126a and 126b, or adhesive may be applied
from a bottom surface of the main body 106 through apertures in the
first and second corner regions 126a and 126b, as described in
greater detail below with reference to FIG. 8.
[0053] Referring now to FIG. 4, a series of diagrams illustrate
removal of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102
and 104 from the packaging tray 100, according to an embodiment of
the present disclosure. As described above, the first and second
artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 lie in-line with the
contours of the top surface of the packaging tray 100 when
integrated with packaging tray 100. When it is desired to remove
the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104, a
portion of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators must
extend out from the packaging tray 100 so that the user is able to
grip a portion of the first and second artificial eyelash
applicators 102 and 104 for removal. Thus, the user preferably
bends the packaging tray 100 along an axis `a` that runs parallel
with lengths of the first and second main bodies 106 and 110,
thereby causing the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b to
extend outwardly at an angle from the top surface of the packaging
tray 100. This allows the user to grip the corresponding legs 108a,
108b, 112a and 112b and break the four connection points 122a-122d
when force is applied, removing the first and second artificial
eyelash applicators 102 and 104 from the packaging tray 100. An
independent artificial eyelash applicator with an adhered
artificial eyelash after removal from the packaging tray 100 is
illustrated in FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. FIG. 5 represents both the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 with the first artificial eyelash 114 and the second
artificial eyelash applicator 104 with the second artificial
eyelash 116.
[0054] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102 integrated with the packaging tray 100,
according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
Specifically, FIG. 6 only differs from FIG. 3 in the number of
attachment points integrating the first artificial eyelash
applicator 102 with the packaging tray 100. Accordingly, a detailed
description of the elements of FIG. 6 can be found above with
reference to FIG. 3. The second eyelash applicator 104 has a
configuration that is substantially identical to that described
herein with respect to FIG. 6.
[0055] In accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure
illustrated in FIG. 6, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102
is only connected to the packaging tray 100 at attachment points
122a and 122b. Accordingly, less force is required to remove the
first artificial eyelash applicator 102 from the packaging tray
100. Further, the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 does not
lie in-line with the contours of the packaging tray 100 when
integrated with the packaging tray 100. While this embodiment of
the present disclosure illustrates two attachment points 122a and
122b, any number of connection points may be utilised that maintain
the artificial eyelash applicator 102 in the proper position with
respect to this embodiment, and also allow for removal of the
artificial eyelash applicator 102 from the packaging tray 100.
[0056] Referring now to FIG. 7, a diagram illustrates a perspective
view of the packaging tray 100 for artificial eyelashes, according
to the embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 6.
Specifically, FIG. 7 clearly illustrates that the first and second
artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 do not lie in-line with
the contours of the packaging tray 100 when only two attachment
points 122a and 122b are provided. Instead the corresponding legs
108a, 108b, 112a and 112b project outwardly at an angle from the
top surface of the packaging tray 100. In a preferred embodiment of
the present disclosure, the ends of the corresponding legs 108a,
108b, 112a and 112b are approximately 3-6 millimeters (mm) away
from the top surface of the packaging tray.
[0057] Accordingly, in the embodiment of the present disclosure
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the packaging tray 100 does not need
to be bent in order for the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and
112b to project outwardly, and easier access is provided to the
user.
[0058] Although the first and second artificial eyelash applicators
102 and 104 are disposed differently in FIGS. 6 and 7, the
artificial eyelashes 114 and 116 are disposed in the same manner
and at the same angle as described above with respect to FIG. 2.
Further, when the first and second artificial eyelash applicators
102 and 104 are removed from the packaging tray 100 in the
embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7, they are still embodied as described
above with respect to FIG. 5.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 8, diagrams illustrate top and bottom
surfaces of the artificial eyelash applicator, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above with
respect to FIG. 3, in order to adhere the first artificial eyelash
114 to the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, adhesive may be
applied to a top surface of the first main body 106 in the first
and second corner regions 126a and 126b, or adhesive may be applied
from a bottom surface of the main body 106 through apertures in the
first and second corner regions 126a and 126b. The embodiment of
the present disclosure shown in FIG. 8 illustrates first and second
apertures 128a and 128b in the first and second corner regions 126a
and 126b. Adhesive surfaces 130a and 130b, such as tape, is applied
to the bottom surface of the first artificial eyelash applicator
102 over the first and second apertures 128a and 128b. Thus, the
adhesive is accessed from the top surface of the main body 106 of
the first artificial eyelash applicator 102 through each of the
first and second apertures 128a and 128b for application of the
first artificial eyelash 114. The second eyelash applicator 104 may
have a configuration that is substantially identical to that
described herein with respect to FIG. 8.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a side view of the first
artificial eyelash applicator 102, according to an embodiment of
the present disclosure. The first artificial eyelash 114 is
disposed on and adhered to the first artificial eyelash applicator
102 in a manner that allows for easy application. Specifically, the
first artificial eyelash 114 is disposed such that hands, fingers
and the first artificial eyelash applicator 102, which are
proximate to the user's eye during application, do not obstruct the
user's view in a mirror when placing the first artificial eyelash
114 on the user's eyelid. A line extending through the length of
the base of the first artificial eyelash 114 is preferably at an
angle of approximately 10-30 degrees from a vertical line of the
top surface of the packaging tray 100 or the first artificial
eyelash applicator 102, in this embodiment of the present
disclosure. This angle allows for proper sight lines during
application of the first artificial eyelash 114. The second eyelash
applicator 104 has a configuration that is substantially identical
to that described herein with respect to FIG. 9.
[0061] Referring now to FIG. 10, a flow diagram illustrates an
artificial eyelash application methodology, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. The methodology begins in at
block 1002 when the packaging tray 100 is bent by a user so that
the corresponding legs 108a, 108b, 112a and 112b of the first and
second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104 are moved so that
they are no longer in-line with contours of the top surface of the
packaging tray 100. Instead, the corresponding legs 108a, 108b,
112a and 112b now project outwardly at an angle from the top
surface of the packaging tray 100. As described above with respect
to FIGS. 6 and 7, block 1002 may be skipped in the methodology,
when the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and
104 are connected to the packaging tray 100 at fewer attachment
points.
[0062] In block 1004, a force is applied to at least one leg of one
of the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 102 and 104,
such that the attachment points between the artificial eyelash
applicator and the packaging tray 100 break. In block 1006, the
artificial eyelash applicator is removed from the packaging tray.
The artificial eyelash remains disposed on and adhered to the
artificial eyelash applicator.
[0063] In order to apply the artificial eyelash, an adhesive at the
base of the artificial eyelash is activated, by moisture for
example, in block 1008. The user then bends the artificial eyelash
applicator to shape the artificial eyelash to the contours of the
user's eyelid, in block 1010, and applies the base of the
artificial eyelash to the user's eyelid using the artificial
eyelash applicator, in block 1012. As described above with respect
to FIG. 9, the artificial eyelash is disposed on the applicator
such that hands, fingers and the applicator itself do not obstruct
the user's view in a mirror when placing the artificial eyelash on
the user's eyelid.
[0064] When adhered to the user's eyelid, the artificial eyelash
applicator is removed from the artificial eyelash, in block 1014.
The artificial eyelash applicator is able to be removed because it
has a weaker adhesive than that between the artificial eyelash and
the user's eyelid.
[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, diagrams illustrate
perspective views of an artificial eyelash applicator integrated
with a packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. FIG. 11A illustrates artificial eyelash applicators
arranged side by side, while FIG. 11B illustrates artificial
eyelash applicators arranged above and below each other. A
packaging tray 1100, a first artificial eyelash applicator 1102,
and a second artificial eyelash applicator 1104 have substantially
the same shape as the corresponding components described with
respect to FIGS. 1-9. However, the packaging tray 1100 also
includes a plurality of primary receiving slits 1132a-1132d. Each
of the plurality of primary receiving slits 1132a-1132d receives a
corresponding end of legs 1108a, 1108b, 1112a and 1112b of the
first and second artificial eyelash applicators 1102 and 1104.
Specifically, a first primary receiving slit 1132a receives an end
of a first leg 1108a of the first artificial eyelash applicator
1102. A second primary receiving slit 1132b receives an end of a
first leg 1112a of the second artificial eyelash applicator 1104. A
third primary receiving slit 1132c receives an end of a second leg
1108b of the first eyelash applicator 1102. A fourth primary
receiving slit 1132d receives an end of a second leg 1112b of the
second eyelash applicator 1104.
[0066] The packaging tray 1100 of FIG. 11 also includes a plurality
of secondary receiving slits 1134a-1134d. Each of the plurality of
secondary receiving slits 1134a-1134d receives an extension from a
corresponding end of first and second main bodies 1106 and 1110 of
the first and second artificial eyelash applicators 1102 and 1104.
Specifically, a first secondary receiving slit 1134a receives an
extension from first end of a first main body 1106 of the first
artificial eyelash applicator 1102. A second secondary receiving
slit 1134b receives an extension from a second opposing end of the
first main body 1106 of the first artificial eyelash applicator
1102. A third secondary receiving slit 1134c receives an extension
from a first end of the second main body 1110 of the second
artificial eyelash applicator 1104. A fourth secondary receiving
slit 1134d receives an extension from a second opposing end of the
second main body 1110 of the second artificial eyelash applicator
1104. The primary and secondary receiving slits 1132a-1134d assist
in maintaining the first and second artificial eyelash applicators
1102 and 1104 in the packaging tray 1100. The embodiments of the
present disclosure are not limited to this number and configuration
of receiving slits. Specifically, any number and configuration of
receiving slits may be used that achieve the object of maintaining
the artificial eyelash applicators in the packaging tray.
[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, diagrams illustrate
perspective views of the artificial eyelash applicator of FIGS. 11A
and 11B, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.
12A shows the first artificial eyelash applicator 1102 having a
cover layer 1136 that is disposed on top of an adhesive layer 1138.
The cover layer 1136 is precut in an area on each of the first leg
1108a and the second leg 1108b, which allows for removal of the
cover layer 1136 to expose the adhesive layer 1138 beneath. This
removal is described in further detail below with respect to FIGS.
13A and 13B. The cover layer 1136 covers a portion of the first
main body 1106. A remaining portion of the first main body 1106 has
the adhesive layer 1138 exposed. The adhesive layer 1138 is exposed
on this remaining portion of the first main body 1106 for
attachment of the artificial eyelash, as illustrated in FIG.
12B.
[0068] FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating removal of a
cover layer from an adhesive layer of the artificial eyelash
applicator of FIG. 11, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13A, the first and
second legs 1108a and 1108b are bent such that tabs 1140a and 1140b
are exposed. The tabs 1140a and 1140b are precut in the cover layer
1136 in a midsection of each of the first and second legs 1108a and
1108b. The cover layer 1136 is then peeled away from the adhesive
layer 1138 using the tabs 1140a and 1140b, exposing the adhesive
layer 1138 on the lower half of each of the first and second legs
1108a and 1108b. The adhesive layer 1138 allows for easier control
of the artificial eyelash applicator during application.
Specifically, the adhesive layer 1138 adheres to the fingers of a
user during application of the artificial eyelash. The second
artificial eyelash applicator 1104 may be embodied in a manner
substantially identical to that described above in FIGS. 12A-13B
with respect to the first artificial eyelash applicator 1104. The
embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the
positioning and shape of the precut lines and the removed portions
of the cover layer on the first and second legs illustrated in
FIGS. 13A and 13B. Further, the embodiments of the present
disclosure are not limited to the shape, size or number of exposed
adhesive portions on the main body as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and
13B. Specifically, any shape, configuration or number of exposed
portions of adhesive layer may be used that achieve the object of
the present disclosure.
[0069] The embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in
FIGS. 11A-13B may include a packaging tray constructed of a
lightweight material, such as, for example, paper or cardboard.
Further, the artificial eyelash applicators in this embodiment of
the present disclosure may also be constructed of a lightweight
material that includes a paper layer with an adhesive and a wax
paper cover layer that covers the adhesive of the paper layer.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 14A, a diagram illustrates a perspective
view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure. An applicator 1402 has a main
body 1404, a left side leg 1406, a center leg 1408, and a right
side leg 1410. The left side leg 1406 extends from a left end of a
length of the main body 1404, and the right side leg 1410 extends
from a right end of the length of the main body 1404. The center
leg 1408 extends from a central region along the length of the main
body 1404. The main body 1404 has a generally curved length, which
mimics the curvature of a user's eyelid. Each of the left side leg
1406, the center leg 1408, and the right side leg 1410 extend in a
direction that is substantially perpendicular to tangents of
respective connecting points along the curved length of the main
body 1404. This causes a general wishbone shape for the main body
1404, the left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410.
[0071] The left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410 extend
from the main body 1404 in the same plane as the main body 1404.
The center leg 1408 has a first segment 1412 that extends away from
the main body 1404 in the same plane as the main body 1404 up to a
specified line 1414, after which a second segment 1416 of the
center leg 1408 extends away from the main body 1404 at a downward
angle. The second segment 1416 of the center leg extends downwardly
away from the plane of the main body 1404 at an angle between 30-60
degrees, and preferably approximately 45 degrees.
[0072] An artificial eyelash 1418 is disposed on, and temporarily
adhered to, the main body 1404 of the artificial eyelash applicator
1402. The artificial eyelash 1418 may be temporarily adhered to the
main body 1404 using an adhesive disposed at least partially along
a length of the main body. More specifically, the adhesive is
disposed along a length of a side of the main body 1404 that
opposes a side of the main body 1404 from which the left side leg
1406, the center leg 1408, and the right side leg 1410 extend.
Adhesive may also be applied to one or more specific regions on the
above-described side of the main body 1404. For example, adhesive
may be applied in corner regions of the main body 1404. In
alternate embodiments of the present disclosure, adhesive may be
applied from a bottom surface of the main body 1404 through
apertures at the one or more specified regions of the main body
1404, as described above.
[0073] The left side leg 1406 and the right side leg 1410 may be
grasped by the user to properly position the artificial eyelash
applicator 1402 and the artificial eyelash 1418 over an eyelid of
the user for application of the artificial eyelash 1418 on the
eyelid of the user. Due to the above-described substantially
wishbone shape of the left side leg 1406, the right side leg 1410,
and the main body 1404, the left side leg 1406 and the right side
leg 1410 are angled away from each other. This shape prevents a
user's hand from interfering with the vision of the user, when the
artificial eyelash applicator 1402 is being used to apply the
artificial eyelash 1418 on the eyelid of the user. The center leg
1408 is disposed such that it is allows a user to properly position
an artificial eyelash in the center of the users' eyeline. More
specifically, the center leg 1408 is angled downwardly so that it
obstructs the eyeline of the user, when the artificial eyelash
applicator 1402 is centered on the user's eyelid. This can make
proper application easier when a mirror is not available to ensure
that the artificial eyelash 1412 is centered. The center leg 1408
may also be grasped by the user for application of the artificial
eyelash 1418.
[0074] The artificial eyelash 1418 is disposed on and adhered to
the artificial eyelash applicator 1402 in a manner that allows for
easy application. Specifically, the artificial eyelash 1412 is
disposed such that hands, fingers, the main body 1404, the left
side leg 1406, and the right side leg 1410, which are proximate to
the user's eye during application, do not obstruct the user's view
in a mirror when placing the artificial eyelash 1418 on the user's
eyelid.
[0075] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 14A. FIG. 14C is a diagram
illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator,
according to the embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated
in FIG. 14A. FIG. 14D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 14A.
[0076] Referring now to FIG. 15A, a diagram illustrates a
perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator, according to
another embodiment of the present disclosure. An applicator 1502
has a main body 1504, a left side leg 1506, a center leg 1508, and
a right side leg 1510. The left side leg 1506 extends from a left
end of a length of the main body 1504, and the right side leg 1510
extends from a right end of the length of the main body 1504. The
center leg 1508 extends from a central region along the length of
the main body 1504. The main body 1504 has a generally curved
length, which mimics the curvature of a user's eyelid. The center
leg 1508 extends in a direction that is substantially perpendicular
to a tangent of a connecting point along the curved length of the
main body 1504.
[0077] The left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510 extend
from the main body 1504 in opposite directions, which are both
perpendicular to the center leg 1508, while remaining in the same
plane as the main body 1504. The center leg 1508 has a first
segment 1512 that extends away from the main body 1504 in the same
plane as the main body 1504 up to a specified line 1514, after
which a second segment 1516 of the center leg 1508 extends away
from the main body 1504 at a downward angle. The second segment
1516 of the center leg extends downwardly away from the plane of
the main body 1504 at an angle between 30-60 degrees, and
preferably approximately 45 degrees.
[0078] An artificial eyelash 1518 is disposed on, and temporarily
adhered to, the main body 1504 of the artificial eyelash applicator
1502. The artificial eyelash 1518 may be temporarily adhered to the
main body 1504 using the techniques described above with respect to
FIG. 14A.
[0079] The left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510 may be
grasped by the user to properly position the artificial eyelash
applicator 1502 and the artificial eyelash 1518 over an eyelid of
the user for application of the artificial eyelash 1512 on the
eyelid of the user. Due to the above-described opposing directions
of the left side leg 1506 and the right side leg 1510, a user's
hand is prevented from interfering with the vision of the user,
when the artificial eyelash applicator 1502 is being used to apply
the artificial eyelash 1518 on an eyelid of the user. The center
leg 1508 is disposed such that it allows a user to properly
position an artificial eyelash in the center of the users' eyeline,
as described above with respect to FIG. 14A. The artificial eyelash
1518 is disposed on and adhered to the artificial eyelash
applicator 1502 in a manner that allows for easy application, as
described above with respect to FIG. 14A.
[0080] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating top view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 15A. FIG. 15C is a diagram
illustrating a front view of the artificial eyelash applicator,
according to the embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated
in FIG. 15A. FIG. 15D is a diagram illustrating a side view of the
artificial eyelash applicator, according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 15A.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 16, a diagram illustrates a
perspective view of an artificial eyelash applicator having a
curved middle leg, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. An artificial eyelash applicator 1602 is shown having a
main body 1604, a left side leg 1606, a center leg 1608, and a
right side leg 1610. The main body 1604, the left side leg 1606,
and the right side leg 1610 are constructed in a manner similar to
that described above with respect to FIG. 14A. An artificial
eyelash 1618 is disposed on the main body 1604 of the artificial
eyelash applicator 1602.
[0082] The center leg 1608 extends away from the main body 1604 in
a same direction as shown in FIGS. 14A and 15A. However, the center
leg 1608 has a first segment 1612 that curves downwardly away from
a plane of the main body 1604, instead of extending a specified
distance in the plane of the main body, as described above with
respect to FIG. 15A.
[0083] The first segment 1612 of the center leg 1608 transitions
into a second segment 1616 of the center leg 1608, which is
straight, at a specified line 1614. The second segment 1616 is
disposed at a specified angle with respect to the plane of the main
body 1604. Specifically, the second segment 1616 is disposed at an
angle between 30 and 60 degrees with respect to the plane of the
main body 1604, and preferably, approximately 45 degrees.
[0084] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator having a shorter curved middle leg,
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An artificial
eyelash applicator 1702 having a main body 1704, a left side leg
1706, a center leg 1708, and a right side leg 1710 are constructed
in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG.
16. An artificial eyelash 1718 is disposed on the main body 1704 of
the artificial eyelash applicator 1702. While a first segment 1712
of the center leg 1708 is also constructed in a manner similar to
that described above with respect to FIG. 16. The first segment
1712 transitions to a second segment 1716 of the center leg 1708,
which is significantly shorter than the second segment 1616 of the
center leg 1608 of FIG. 16, at a specified line 1714.
[0085] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of an
artificial eyelash applicator having only a center leg, according
to an embodiment of the present disclosure. An artificial eyelash
applicator 1802 having a main body 1804 and a center leg 1808 is
constructed in a manner similar to that described above with
respect to FIG. 14A. Specifically, a first segment 1812, a
specified line 1814, and a second segment 1816 are similar to
respective components of FIG. 14A. However, the eyelash applicator
is constructed without a left side leg and a right side leg. Thus,
an artificial eyelash 1818 is applied to a users' eyelid by
grasping only the center leg 1808 of the artificial eyelash
applicator 1802. Alternate embodiments of the present disclosure
may include an artificial eyelash applicator having a main body, a
center leg, and one of a right and left side leg.
[0086] FIGS. 19 to 23 illustrate the applicator 1902 for artificial
eyelashes according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The
following description focuses primarily upon the structure and
features that are different than the embodiment described above in
connection with FIGS. 1 to 18. Reference should be made to the
description above in connection with FIGS. 1 to 18 for additional
information regarding the structure and features, and possible
alternatives to the structure and features of the applicator 1902
illustrated in FIGS. 19 to 23 and described below. Structure and
features of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 to 23 that correspond
to structure and features of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 18 are
designated hereinafter with like reference numbers.
[0087] The applicator 1902 in this embodiment includes a first leg
1904, and a second leg 1906 rotatably coupled to the first leg 1904
at a hinge joint 1908. The hinge joint 1908 defines a rotational
axis 1910. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second legs
1904, 1906 are integrally formed as one piece, and the hinge joint
1908 is a crease, i.e., thinner in cross section relative to
adjacent portions of the first and second legs 1904, 1906. In other
embodiments, the first and second legs 1904, 1906 may be formed
separately, and the hinge joint 1908 may include one or more female
and male members, and corresponding coupling members that may be
insertable through the female and male members to couple the first
and second legs 1904, 1906 together. The applicator 1902 may be
composed of a lightweight material such as paper, cardboard, or
thin plastic. It should be appreciated that in various other
embodiments, the hinge joint 1908 is defined by any other suitable
type of hinge which is comprised of the same or different material
as the first leg 1904 and the second leg 1906. For instance, in
various embodiments, the hinge joint 1908 is defined by a thin
plastic hinge to which the first leg 1904 and second leg 1906 are
attached by adhesive or other suitable attachment means.
[0088] A first body portion 1912 is connected to the first leg
1904, and a second body portion 1914 is connected to the second leg
1906. The first body portion 1912 includes a first flange 1916
positioned opposite the hinge joint 1908, and the second body
portion 1914 includes a second flange 1918 positioned opposite the
hinge joint 1908. The first flange 1916 matingly receives the
second flange 1918 when the second leg 1906 is rotated toward the
first leg 1904 about the rotation axis 1910. Referring to FIG. 19,
the first and second flanges 1916, 1918 each define a concave arc
lying in a section plane that is coplanar with the rotation axis
1910 of the hinge joint 1908. As such, the first and second body
portions 1912, 1914 each have a slight concave curvature, which
mimics the curvature of a user's eyelid (not shown).
[0089] With continuing reference to FIG. 19, in the illustrated
embodiment, the first leg 1904 defines a first leg width 1920, the
first body portion 1912 defines a first body portion width 1922,
and the first leg width 1920 is about one third or more of the
first body portion width 1922. In further embodiments, the second
leg 1906 defines a second leg width 1924, the second body portion
1914 defines a second body portion width 1926, and the second leg
width 1924 is about one third or more of the second body portion
width 1926. In still further embodiments, the first and second leg
widths 1920, 1924 are substantially the same. The applicator 1902
can generally have a wishbone shape due to the first and second leg
widths 1920, 1924 relative to the first and second body portion
widths 1922, 1926, and the curvatures of the first second body
portions 1912, 1914. The wishbone shape of the applicator 1902 can
further facilitate easily and conveniently applying the artificial
eyelashes to a user's eyelid, as detailed above with reference to
FIG. 14A.
[0090] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 23, a plurality of raised surfaces
or ribs 1928 are positioned on the first and second legs 1904, 1906
adjacent the hinge joint 1908. The raised surfaces 1928 can provide
friction for easy gripping or grasping. In other embodiments, the
first and second legs 1904, 1906 can include fewer than all the
illustrated raised surfaces. In the illustrated embodiment, each
raised surface 1928 has the shape of an elongated strip when viewed
from above. In other embodiments, however, each raised surface 1928
may assume any geometric form when viewed from above, including,
but not limited to, a polygon, an oval, an ellipse, a lens, a
squircle, a symbol, or a combination thereof. In various other
embodiments, rather than using raised surfaces 1928, first and
second legs 1904, 1906 have a rougher texture adjacent hinge joint
1908 than at the area distal from the hinge joint 1908 to provide
friction for easy gripping or grasping.
[0091] With continuing reference to FIGS. 20 to 23, a set of
artificial eyelashes 1930 is disposed on to the first flange 1916.
The set of artificial eyelashes 1930 may be temporarily adhered to
the first flange 1916 using the techniques described above with
reference to FIG. 14A, e.g., using a tape or adhesive having low
tackiness. The set of eyelashes 1930 includes a proximal portion
1932 to be applied to the user's eyelid, and a distal portion 1934
to be positioned opposite to the user's eyelid. The proximal
portion 1932 may include a pre-applied adhesive to be activated
when applying the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 with the
applicator 1902, as further explained below.
[0092] In prior art configurations, the applicator and eyelashes
are typically separated at the point of purchase. The user may then
be required to accurately place the eyelashes on the applicator and
proceed with the glue work, which can be time-consuming and
cumbersome. In contrast to prior art configurations, the set of
artificial eyelashes 1930 is fixed or disposed on the first flange
1916 when the applicator 1902 is shipped and/or when the applicator
1902 is at the point of purchase. Therefore, the user can simply
grasp the applicator 1902 with the set of artificial eyelashes 1930
disposed thereon, without separately retrieving the artificial
eyelashes for placing onto the applicator. As such, the applicator
1902 can make the glue work for applying the set of artificial
eyelashes 1930 efficient, user-friendly, and tidy.
[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the applicator 1902 includes
a coupling mechanism 1936 that includes a catch mechanism 1938
mounted to the first leg 1904, and a corresponding hook 1940
mounted to the second leg 1906. Referring to FIG. 21, the hook 1940
is selectively movable between a locked position (see bottom right
of FIG. 21) where the hook 1940 contacts the corresponding catch
mechanism 1938, and an unlocked position where the hook 1940 is
released out of the locking position (see top left of FIG. 21).
When the user folds or rotates the second leg 1906 toward the first
leg 1904 about the rotational axis 1910, and rotates the hook 1940
toward the catch mechanism 1938, the hook 1940 contacts the catch
mechanism 1938 and locks the first and second legs 1904, 1906
together in a closed position. On the other hand, when the user
rotates the hook 1940 away from the catch mechanism 1938 (e.g.,
using a thumb), the hook 1940 is released out of the locking
position, thereby enabling the second leg 1906 to rotate upwardly
about the rotational axis 1910 toward an opened position. As used
herein, the terms "top," "bottom," "side," "upwardly,"
"downwardly," and other directional terms are not intended to
require any particular orientation, but are instead used for
purposes of description only.
[0094] Although in the illustrated embodiment the coupling
mechanism 1936 includes only a single catch mechanism 1938 on the
first leg 1904, and only a single hook 1940 on the second leg 1906,
in further embodiments, the first leg 1904 may include one or more
catch mechanisms 1938, one or more hooks 1940, or a combination
thereof. Similarly, the second leg 1906 may include one or more
catch mechanisms 1938, one or more hooks 1940, or a combination
thereof. As such, the catch mechanism 1938 and the corresponding
hook 1940 can be on either of the first and second legs 1904, 1906.
Moreover, although FIGS. 19 to 23 illustrate the catch mechanism
1938 and the hook 1940 as integrally formed with the first and
second legs 1904, 1906, respectively, in other embodiments the
catch mechanism 1938 and the hook 1940 may be separately formed and
attached to a respective one of the first and second legs 1904,
1906 via glue or fasteners. In various other embodiments, the
coupling mechanism 1936 includes a button, a snap, a hook-and-loop
fastener, or other suitable fasteners to releasably lock the first
and second legs 1904, 1906 together.
[0095] Referring to FIG. 23, when the first and second legs 1904,
1906 are locked together, a gap 1942 extends between the first and
second body portions 1912, 1914, and the set of artificial
eyelashes 1930 extends within the gap 1942. In the illustrated
embodiment, an intermediate portion 1944 of the set of artificial
eyelashes 1930 between the proximal and distal portions 1932, 1934
is held by the first and second flanges 1916, 1918, and the distal
portion 1934 of the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 extends into
the gap 1942. In this way, the distal portion 1934 of the set of
artificial eyelashes 1930 can be protected and maintained in its
natural shape.
[0096] With continuing reference to FIG. 23, the second flange 1918
includes a convex eyelash contact surface 1946 facing toward the
first flange 1916 when the first and second legs 1904, 1906 are
locked together. In the side view illustrated in FIG. 23, the
eyelash contact surface 1946 defines an arc or curve, and a chord
line 1948 may be drawn from the outer end of the arc to the inner
end of the arc, which is defined by a point at which the arc
intersects a planar part of the second body portion 1914. The chord
line 1948 is substantially parallel to an adjacent part of the
second body portion 1914. Other configurations are possible
depending on the usage requirement or preferences for the
particular applicator 1902, including configurations where the
chord line 1948 is angled relative to the adjacent part of the
second body portion 1914.
[0097] According to certain embodiments, the applicator 1902 is
removably coupled to the packaging trays 100, 1100. In further
embodiments, at least one applicator 1902 is coupled to the
packaging tray 100, 1100 through at least one frangible joint, and
is removable from the packaging tray 100, 1100 when the at least
one frangible joint is broken. The set of artificial eyelashes 1930
may remain disposed on and adhered to the applicator 1902 while the
frangible joint is being broken.
[0098] To apply the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 with the
applicator 1902, an adhesive at the proximal portion 1932 of the
set of artificial eyelashes 1930 is activated, by moisture for
example. The user then rotates the second leg 1906 toward the first
leg 1904 about the rotational axis 1910, and rotates the catch
mechanism 1938, thereby locking the first and second legs 1904,
1906 together. The set of artificial eyelashes 1930 is then applied
to the user's eyelid, for example by grasping the raised surfaces
1928 using the thumb and index finger, and placing the proximal
portion 1932 of the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 on the user's
eyelid. When the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 are adhered to
the user's eyelid, the applicator 1902 is removed from the set of
artificial eyelashes 1930. The applicator 1902 is able to be
removed because the adhesive between the set of artificial
eyelashes 1930 and the first flange 1916 has a lower tackiness than
the adhesive between the set of artificial eyelashes 1930 and the
user's eyelid.
[0099] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure describe
a specific configuration of first and second legs 1904, 1906
extending from the first and body portions 1912, 1914 of the
applicator 1902, any number or configuration of legs may be used
that allow for proper application of the artificial eyelash. For
example, embodiments of the present disclosure can include an
applicator having side legs in addition to the first and second
legs 1904, 1906.
[0100] The artificial eyelash applicator of the present disclosure
may have a cover layer disposed on top of an adhesive layer. The
cover layer may be removed to expose the adhesive layer beneath.
The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the
shape, size or number of exposed adhesive portions. Specifically,
any shape, configuration or number of exposed portions of adhesive
layer may be used that achieve the object of the present
disclosure.
[0101] While the invention has been shown and described with
reference to certain embodiments thereof, it will be understood by
those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail
may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of
the invention as defined by the appended claims and their
equivalents.
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